Device and process for filtering a cryogenic liquid

摘要

Cryogenic fluid thermodynamic properties lie in the ranges 6-25 bars and -100 degrees C to 0 degrees C. Filters (30A, 30B) are located between cryogenic fluid inlet (18) and outlet (14) and are under ambient conditions. The filters remove microorganisms and/or particulates of 0.1 micron or more, the loss being less than 7 bar. The cryogenic fluid is supplied in the liquid phase, at the inlet of the filters. An Independent claim is included for the corresponding method of filtration. Preferred features: The filtration device causes a loss less than 5 bar. The cryogenic fluid supply delivers at 6-60 bar to the filter. The relief valve (38) is placed upstream of the filtration unit. The supply is a pressure reservoir (10) for liquid, the relief valve connected to it. The filter is made of microporous ceramic and contains channels with parallel inlets. Based on the same principles, specific variants are used to filter liquefied carbon dioxide or liquefied nitrous oxide. There is provision to steam-clean the apparatus, including the filters.